Help for Dementia Podcast:

Caring for someone with dementia can be challenging at times, but having reliable resources can make a real difference. The Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories Help for Dementia podcast introduces the revamped HelpForDementia.ca website, designed to support care partners, individuals living with dementia and healthcare professionals. 

In the first two episodes, Christine McWilliam, a key contributor to the site, and Julie Desautels, a Palliative Care Learning Specialist, share the updates and how the site supports those navigating dementia care.

Support is Always Available

Help is always accessible through the website, chatbot, or a phone call. “You’re always one phone call away from connecting with someone,” Christine emphasized. For direct support, call 1-866-950-5465.

Julie added, “We want to ensure care partners and those living with dementia feel supported, with resources that keep their hope alive.”

Trusted, Expert-Reviewed Information

One of the most critical aspects of HelpForDementia.ca is the expert-reviewed content. Christine noted that “all our information is reviewed by doctors, researchers, and universities, ensuring accuracy.” This makes the site a trusted resource for those looking for reliable dementia care information.

Julie added, “We want care partners to feel confident in the resources they find here.”

Seeds of Hope Series for Care Partners

The Seeds of Hope Family Learning Series is a comprehensive guide for care partners, providing practical tips and emotional support through every stage of dementia. Julie explained, “It goes through the entire progression of dementia, from diagnosis to later stages, and offers guidance for care partners.”

Christine added, “The series gives care partners important tools, like how to set up a power of attorney or personal directive. These are crucial for those new to caregiving.”

Chatbot for Quick Assistance

The website features a chatbot that offers quick guidance for those unsure where to start. “Even if you don’t know what you’re looking for, you can hit the button and ask a question,” Christine explained. The chatbot provides instant answers or connects users to a real person if needed.

Still need to speak with someone? Christine emphasized that, “There’s always a team of humans behind the site. If you need additional support, the chatbot can connect you to a real person.”

Webinars and Live Support

HelpForDementia.ca also offers live webinars led by experts, allowing care partners and professionals to dive deeper into specific topics. Julie said, “These webinars are a great way to get real-time advice and learn more from specialists.” 

Can’t make the live session? Recorded webinars are available so you can catch up at your convenience. The webinars are also scheduled to fit care partners' busy lives. “We usually run them at 7 PM to make sure people can attend,” Christine added.

A Fresh, Mobile-Friendly Website

One of the biggest improvements to HelpForDementia.ca is its mobile-friendly design. Care partners are often searching for answers while on the go, and having a website that works well on smartphones and tablets is essential.

“Making the website mobile-friendly was a huge priority,” Julie noted. “Care partners need quick answers, and we wanted to remove any barriers.” Now, users can access essential information from their devices without hassle.

Resources for Healthcare Professionals

While HelpForDementia.ca primarily supports care partners, it also offers valuable tools for healthcare professionals. Julie explained how these resources help professionals provide better care for those with dementia.

“The site offers guidance on daily care tips and emotional responses,” she said. “This helps professionals offer more personalized, compassionate care.”

Christine shared a practical example, “If someone is unhappy but can’t express why, it might be something as simple as the fabric of their sweater bothering them. These resources help professionals think about those small but important details.”

Looking Ahead

HelpForDementia.ca is an essential tool for anyone involved in dementia care. With its mobile-friendly design, expert-reviewed resources, chatbot, and live support options, it offers the help you need, when you need it.

Julie and Christine also hinted at future updates based on user feedback, ensuring the site continues to evolve alongside the needs of care partners and those living with dementia.

Explore the updated site today, and take advantage of the educational tools, personalized support, and trusted information it offers. Visit HelpForDementia.ca to learn more, and stay tuned for the next episode of the Help for Dementia podcast.